A contract worth $41 million may not seem like a great deal of money under the NBA's soaring salary cap, but to Portland Trail Blazers center Meyers Leonard, it's more than enough.
"Market value is what it is it. All I care about is that I know I'm playing to my fullest potential for my coaches to my teammates, that people believe in that... back to the four years and $41 million, I'd look at them like they're crazy if they say it wasn't enough," Leonard said during a recent appearance on The Bald Faced Truth radio show with John Canzano on Monday. "I mean, dear God, look at where I come from."
Leonard lost his father, James, at the age of six due to a freak bicycle accident. His mother, Tracie, became housebound as a result of a horseback injury which resulted in disc surgery.
The 24-year-old 7-footer agreed to a reported four-year, $41-million contract to remain with the Trail Blazers as a restricted free agent on July 10. He played in 61 games last season, averaging 8.4 points and 5.1 rebounds in 21.9 minutes, despite having his year cut short after dislocating his shoulder.
"I'm eager. I'm hungry. I want it," Leonard added. "I know what this team can do and I know what I can do and I want it."
